Healthcare Professionals

Key advice for those working in the health sector - including GPs, school and community nurses and child and adolescent mental health professionals - to help them understand the impact of digital technologies on young people and their mental health in particular.

​It is vital that health professionals:

have a knowledge of the latest online threats, risks and trends in online communications and social networking

understand the impact of technology and new and emerging apps and trends have on the health of young people and their relationships

encourage and support young people to develop healthy relationships with technology and manage their mental health

consider the use of technology by parents and carers which may impact on family life

include relevant questions in assessments and when treating patients to gain an understanding of the role of technology in their lives

The Royal Society for Public Health and Young Health Movement have produced the #StatusOfMind report which looks at the positive and negative effects that social media is having on young people.

Young Minds is a charity that helps young people manage their mental health. They are running a campaign called ‘Life on the Web’ to look at the challenges and benefits of growing up with the internet and tackle problems like cyberbullying and online privacy that can threaten mental health and wellbeing.

Young people often prefer to look for information online so may ask you to recommend an app or website.

The NHS has developed the NHS GO app with young people for young people. The app and website are designed to help them find clear and reliable information about their health and locate their local services and support.

There are different training opportunities available both online and offline to help you.

You can attend Online Safety Live training run by SWGfL, a partner in the UK Safer Internet Centre. This is a programme of events designed to develop the knowledge of professionals working with young people about latest trends, the biggest trends and best resources.

MindED is an online training platform funded by the Department of Health and Department for Education. It focus’ on children and young people’s mental health and offers advice on a huge variety of topics.

It is important to consider what you share on social media and who you share it with. You can use our social media guides to learn about managing your privacy on social media and read our Professional Reputation guide for more information about strategies for managing your online reputation.

Many people turn to the internet for support and information about their health and there are many benefits to health services for harnessing the digital world to strengthen and deliver their provision.